2.03.2022

Where to Dine and Shop in El Cerrito and Richmond | Hidden Gems ๐Ÿ’Ž๐Ÿ’Ž



When we moved back to California, we had to find an affordable place to live. Returning to Alameda, CA was not going to happen...it's $$$. Many of our Bay Area friends moved further out and found lovely homes in El Cerrito and the Richmond Annex. I didn't know much about this area except that we would be near San Pablo and the Ohlone Greenway. I swear everything is a few dollars cheaper than compared to Oakland and Berkeley. Much easier on the wallet for a family of four.  



Grocery Stores in El Cerrito:


Yaoya-San Japanese Market - Coming from Seattle and having shopped at the famous Uwajimaya , my first two times at Yaoya-san were underwhelming only because it's a quarter of the size. However, it's grown on me a lot. Need red bean mochi - check! Need salted saba (mackerel) - check! I discovered vinegar saba and it was delish. When I needed Vietnamese rice paper- check! Though it has a smaller footprint, I always find what I need. 10566 San Pablo Ave, El Cerrito. 


New India Supermarket-  Going here is a fun culinary adventure. I take my time to see if there are new teas or spices to be discovered. I love the extensive selection of nan and rothi in the freezer. 10289 San Pablo Ave. El Cerrito.


Giovanni's Produce Market- This family-owned market is wonderful if you need basics and a selection of specialty foods. When I went for the time, I thought it was charming. They even had a basket of complimentary succulent cuttings. You'll find Acme Bread, affordable fruits and veggies, and specialty snacks. Again this isn't Berkeley Bowl, but if you realized you forgot some key ingredients for your Italian dinner, this is your spot! Tucked away at 1600 Liberty. 


Where to Eat/Drink El Cerrito | Richmond


Gangnam Tofu: Go here for amazing seafood pancakes and fried chicken! It can be busy and they are short staffed, so have a snack right before and practice patience. Or just take it to go. :) 11740 San Pablo Ave. 



Talla Tea: For an affordable and delicious bubble tea, ๐Ÿง‹check out this modest spot in one of the shopping centers. The owner can be grouchy at first and he is grouchy to all no matter who you are. But if you're looking for a bargain, this is the spot. It's great for my son and his middle school friends because it's easy on the pocket and the cafe is teen-friendly. Base price is $3.50 and add-ons are 75 cents. Compare that to most places where the base price is $4.75-5.50 + add ons. Located on 10734 San Pablo Ave. in El Cerrito. 


For a healthy green smoothie head on over to the Natural Grocery Annex! They also have ice-cream by the scoop and wonderful baked goods!


New Dumpling: Amazing Taiwanese beef noodle soup and dumplings. You can also buy frozen dumplings to store.  Great prices.๐ŸฅŸ

 Masa - a wonderful place to chow down on tamales, tacos, and burritos!๐ŸŒฎ A beautiful, clean, and spacious restaurant that is perfect for the pandemic. They also have limited outdoor seating. It's set in the charming Point Richmond neighborhood with great prices too! If you're in a rush, order in advance. You have to wait for 5-10 minutes to customize your food. 


Where to Shop, El Cerrito:

๐Ÿ‘‰ Jenny K: I discovered this place during the holidays. Jenny and her husband own Well-Grounded Cafe and the Jenny K gift shop. Their kids also attend the local school. Perfect neighborhood gift shop for last-minute kid and adult gifts. She also has an annual shop for a good cause that benefits the local schools. 6921 Stockton Ave, El Cerrito. 

๐Ÿ‘‰  I like to shop local of course, but every once in a while I need things from Marshalls (I've never lived within walking distance to one) - it's great for make-up and fancy shampoos. There's always practical stuff to be found. Lovely teas, truffle oil.


Affordable Kids Classes

My son started taking acting classes at the East Bay Center for Performing Arts in Richmond. Group youth classes are FREE! I couldn't believe it either. These are 8 -week courses in a beautiful building with high-quality teachers. A wonderful community space to support! 339 11th St, Richmond


#shoplocal #eatlocal #elcerrito  #richmond


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